Research Says Your Washing Machine Can Make You Sick — Here’s How

You might think that your washing machine is one of the cleanest places in your home. Unfortunately not. Yes, it’s full of hot water & detergent, but there’s likely an entire ecosystem that’s hiding under all that cleanliness. It could even be making you sick. But how exactly? Let’s find out.

The sticky base layer inside many washers

Every washer has a bit of grime that never really leaves. The grime eventually becomes a film that’s slimy & sticky, which is perfect for bacteria to take hold. It forms on plastic parts and hoses, as well as rubber seals, becoming a glue trap for microbes.

They thrive off leftover detergent and fabric softener. Worst of all, the microbes will continue surviving after each rinse.

Where microbes tend to hide in a machine

Pull open your detergent drawer and look inside. You may notice some grayish gunk around the edge. It’s where most microbes live because it’s moist, and they also enjoy staying in the drawer & door seal.

These areas stay damp between cycles, while any leftover water gives the germs a place to multiply.

A washer linked to infant colonization

A study in Germany once researched the dangers of washing machines. They found that several newborns were carrying a rare & drug-resistant strain of bacteria called Klebsiella oxytoca.

The washing machine that cleaned the babies’ clothes was spreading these germs because the bacteria had settled inside the washer’s rubber seal. They spread to every load that went through it. So much for a washing machine “cleaning” your clothes.

Cold and “eco” cycles

Quite a few people use low temperatures or eco settings to save energy. Unfortunately, there’s a catch. Cold water doesn’t kill bacteria, and a 104 °F (40 °C) wash will only remove dirt & smell, not the bacteria lingering on your clothes.

Higher heat cycles of over 140 °F (60 °C) are much better for destroying bacterial colonies.

Viruses in laundry

Viruses work differently from bacteria. Some of them may break down quickly in detergent, while others are able to hold onto your clothes unless the temperature is too high.

You’re best off washing your clothes with a good cleaning agent & at a high temperature. A quick wash? That’s just asking for trouble.

Fungi aren’t rare in washers

You might notice a musty smell whenever you open the washing machine door. It’s usually mold. Fungi like Aspergillus & Cladosporium love damp and dark places. Your washer gives them exactly that.

Fungi are able to grow in the rubber gasket or behind the drawer, since it never quite dries out over there. You’ll need a full cleaning cycle or bleach to rinse them out.

Not all machines are the same inside

Yes, front-load washers are efficient. But the problem is that they tend to trap more moisture because they have airtight doors, leaving behind more dampness & a better chance that germs can grow.

Top-loaders dry out faster between washes. You’ll have to decide which one matters more to you, efficiency or cleanliness.

What we know from controlled fabrics and time-on-textile tests

The fabric you use can also make a difference. Microbes can live for days, sometimes even weeks, on damp cotton & polyester, while others tend to die off on dry fabric.

Leaving wet laundry in a pile is a huge mistake. Essentially, you’re giving them exactly what they need to multiply and cause you more problems.

The following sources were consulted in the preparation of this article: